North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process

Transcription

1 North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process Users Guide September 2013

2 STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION The guiding mission of the North Carolina State Board of Education is that every public school student will graduate from high school, globally competitive for work and postsecondary education and prepared for life in the 21st Century. WILLIAM COBEY Chair :: Chapel Hill A.L. COLLINS Vice Chair :: Kernersville DAN FOREST Lieutenant Governor :: Raleigh JANET COWELL State Treasurer :: Raleigh JUNE ST. CLAIR ATKINSON Secretary to the Board :: Raleigh BECKY TAYLOR Greenville REGINALD KENAN Rose Hill KEVIN D. HOWELL Raleigh GREG ALCORN Salisbury OLIVIA OXENDINE Lumberton JOHN A. TATE III Charlotte WAYNE MCDEVITT Asheville MARCE SAVAGE Waxhaw PATRICIA N. WILLOUGHBY Raleigh NC DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION June St. Clair Atkinson, Ed.D., State Superintendent 301 N. Wilmington Street :: Raleigh, North Carolina In compliance with federal law, NC Public Schools administers all state-operated educational programs, employment activities and admissions without discrimination because of race, religion, national or ethnic origin, color, age, military service, disability, or gender, except where exemption is appropriate and allowed by law. Inquiries or complaints regarding discrimination issues should be directed to: Dr. Rebecca Garland, Chief Academic Officer :: Academic Services and Instructional Support 6368 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC :: Telephone: (919) :: Fax: (919) Visit us on the Web :: ii M0513

3 Acknowledgements The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction gratefully acknowledges the School Counselor Development Team members who contributed their time, energy, and expertise to the development of this new evaluation system. The depth of their knowledge and understanding of the role of school counselors in public school settings, as well as their understanding of what a 21 st Century evaluation process should entail, guided the work and kept it focused on the public school students of North Carolina. With deep appreciation, the contributions of the following team members are gratefully acknowledged: L. DiAnne Borders, University of North Carolina at Greensboro Linda Brannan, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Vernetta Bridges, Alamance Burlington School System Renee Dilda, Wayne County Public Schools Cynthia Floyd, Wilson County Schools Marchelle Horner, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Anastasia Judge, Wake County Public Schools Susan Lindsay, North Carolina A & T State University Joellen Malveaux, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Kim Metcalf, University of West Georgia Lajuana Norfleet, Alamance Burlington School System Marrius Pettiford, Alamance Burlington School System Adria Shipp, Piedmont Health Systems Kenneth Simington, Winston Salem Forsyth County Schools Angela Simmons, Hickory Public Schools Eric Sparks, American School Counselor Association Audrey Thomasson, Wake County School System In addition, the development team would like thank several members of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction team who provided advice and guidance throughout the development process. These are: Lynne Johnson Jennifer Preston Sherry Thomas Mary Watson For additional information, please contact: Jean Williams, Ph.D. Research and Evaluation Associates Bluffmont Lane Lone Tree, CO (303) jean@centurylink.net iii

4 Table of Contents Introduction... 4 North Carolina Professional School Counseling Standards... 4 Vision for School Counseling... 4 Intended Purpose of the Standards... 5 Organization of the Standards... 5 Standard 1: School counselors demonstrate leadership, advocacy, and collaboration Standard 2: School counselors promote a respectful environment for diverse population of students Standard 3: School counselors understand and facilitate the implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program Standard 4: School counselors promote learning for all students Standard 5: School counselors actively reflect on their practice Framework for 21 st Century Learning Core Subjects and 21 st Century Themes Learning and Innovation Skills Information, Media, and Technology Skills Life and Career Skills st Century Support Systems Milestones for Improving Learning and Education Global Awareness Financial, Economic, Business, and Entrepreneurial Literacy Civic Literacy Health Literacy Thinking and Learning Skills Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills Communication Information and Media Literacy Skills Creativity and Innovation Skills Collaboration Skills Contextual Learning Skills ICT Literacy Life Skills Leadership Ethics Accountability Adaptability Personal Productivity Personal Responsibility People Skills Self Direction Social Responsibility North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process Component 1: Training Component 2: Orientation Component 3: Self-Assessment i

5 Component 4: Pre-Observation Conference Component 5: Observations Component 6: Post-Observation Conference Component 7: Summary Evaluation Conference and Scoring the School Counselor Summary Rating Form Component 8: Professional Growth Plans Effective Dates and Effect on Licensing and Career Status Purposes of the Evaluation..21 School Counselor Responsibilities.21 Principal/Evaluator Responsibilities..21 Rubric for Evaluating NC School Counselors Completing the Rubric and the Summary Rating Form Self-Assessment Completing the Rubric Based on Observations Determining Rating Levels After Completing the Rubric Scoring the Rubric Example of How to Score the Rubric Example of Marking the Summary Rating Form Glossary Appendix A: American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model: A Framework for School Counseling Programs Forms and Materials for Use During Evaluation ASCA National Model: NC Framework for School Counseling ASCA National Model: Executive Summary 3.0 School Counseling Program Assessment NC School Data Profile NC Smart Goal Worksheet NC Annual Agreement NC Annual Calendar NC Use of Time Assessment NC Guidance Essential Standards Curriculum Action Plan NC Guidance Essential Standards Lesson Plan Template NC School Curriculum results report NC Small Group Action Plan NC Small Group Results Report NC Closing the Gap Action Plan NC Closing the Gap Results Report Appendix B - North Carolina Professional School Counselor Standards Review Committee Members Appendix C - Codes of Ethics Code of Ethics for North Carolina Educators Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for North Carolina Educators American School Counselor Association Ethical Standards for School Counselors ii

6 Appendix D- Forms Rubric for Evaluating North Carolina s School Counselors School Counselor Summary Rating Form Summary Rating SheetProfessional Growth PlanRecord of School Counselor s Evaluation Activities iii

7 Introduction The mission of the North Carolina State Board of Education is that every public school student will graduate from high school globally competitive for work and postsecondary education, and prepared for life in the 21 st Century. This mission requires a new vision of school leadership and a new set of skills that professional school counselors must use daily in order to help their students learn 21 st Century content and master skills they will need when they graduate from high school and enroll in higher education or enter the workforce or the military. North Carolina Professional School Counseling Standards The North Carolina Professional School Counseling Standards are the basis for school counselor preparation, evaluation, and professional development. Colleges and universities are changing their programs to align with these standards; a new school counselor evaluation instrument has been created; and professional development is taking on a new look based on these standards. Each of these will include the skills and knowledge needed for 21 st Century teaching and learning. Vision for School Counseling The demands of 21 st Century education dictate new roles for school counselors. Schools need professional school counselors who are adept at creating and utilizing systems for change and at building relationships within the school community. Professional school counselors create nurturing relationships with students that enhance students academic achievement and personal success as globally productive citizens in the 21 st Century. Utilizing leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, professional school counselors promote academic success and personal success by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program that encompasses areas of academic, career, and personal/social development for all students. In order to deliver a comprehensive school counseling program, the professional school counselor should understand and be competent in the following areas: Human growth and development, Core components for helping relationships Culture diversity Societal change and trends, Student learning and academic success, Evaluation of student needs, Group and individual counseling techniques, Career development, Use of data, Use of technology, Role of the school counselor in leadership, advocacy, and systemic change, Legal and ethical guidelines, Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, Research and program evaluation, School culture and mission, and Interaction with other educational professional. 4

8 Intended Purpose of the Standards The North Carolina Standards for School Counseling have been developed as a resource for school counselors to enhance their knowledge and skills. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the school counselor to provide services as part of a comprehensive multidisciplinary team with complementary knowledge, skills, and experiences. The school counselor standards will: guide professional development as school counselors move forward in the 21 st Century; provide the focus for schools and districts as they support, monitor, and evaluate their school counselor; and assist higher education programs in developing the content and requirements of school counselor education curricula. Organization of the Standards Standard: The Standard is the broad category of the school counselor s knowledge and skills. Summary: The summary provides explicit descriptions of the Standard s content. Practices: The practices define the various tasks undertaken to demonstrate the Standard. The list of practices is not meant to be exhaustive. Artifacts: The artifacts are the examples of standard practices the school counselor might include as evidence in meeting the standards. These standards are intended for use by North Carolina schools and local education agencies that employ school counselors. The following documents were consulted while developing these standards: State Board of Education Mission and Goals; State Board of Education Policies QP-C-003 and QP-C-006; State General Statutes 115C-333 and 115C-335; Current North Carolina School Counselor Job Description; The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model: A Framework for School Counseling Programs (Appendix A); State Comprehensive School Counseling Standard Course of Study; North Carolina Standards for the Preparation of School Counselors; and U.S. Department of Education s The Guidance Counselor s Role in Ensuring Equal Educational Opportunity. Standard 1: School counselors demonstrate leadership, advocacy, and collaboration. Professional school counselors demonstrate leadership, advocacy, and collaboration by developing a positive place for students and staff members to learn and grow. School counselors manage a comprehensive school counseling program that supports academic, career, and personal/social development for all students. School counselors advocate for equity for all students and staff members regardless of their learning style, cultural background, or individual learning needs. School counselors improve the counseling profession by demonstrating high ethical standards and by following the code of ethics set out for them. 5

9 a. School counselors demonstrate leadership in the school. School counselors work collaboratively with all school staff to create a positive learning community. School counselors take an active role in analyzing local, state, and national data to develop and enhance school counseling programs. School counselors create data-driven goals and strategies that align with the school improvement plan to improve student learning. School counselors annually discuss the comprehensive school counseling program with the school administrator. School counselors provide input in the selection of professional development for the school staff that meets the needs of students and choose professional development activities that foster their own professional growth. School counselors mentor and support colleagues to improve the academic success of students. Work collaboratively with all school staff to create a positive learning community. Take an active role in analyzing local, state, and national data to develop and enhance school counseling programs. Create data driven goals and strategies that align with the school improvement plan. Discuss the comprehensive school counseling program with the school administrator. Provide input in the selection of professional development for the school staff. Choose professional development activities that foster their own professional growth. Mentor and support colleagues. b. School counselors enhance the counseling profession. School counselors strive to improve the counseling profession by staying current in research and best practices. School counselors contribute to establishing a positive school climate. School counselors promote professional growth for all educators and collaborate with their colleagues to improve the profession. Strive to enhance the counseling profession. Contribute to establishing a positive school climate. Promote professional growth. Collaborate with their colleagues. c. School counselors advocate for schools and students. School counselors advocate for positive change in policies and practices affecting student learning. School counselors promote awareness of, and responsiveness to, learning styles, cultural diversity, and individual learning needs. School counselors collaborate with staff in building relationships with students that have a positive impact on student achievement. School counselors participate in the implementation of initiatives to improve the education and development of all students. School counselors advocate for equitable, studentcentered legislation, policy, and procedures. Advocate for positive change in policies and practices affecting student learning. Promote awareness of, and responsiveness to, learning styles, cultural diversity, and individual learning needs. Participate in the implementation of initiatives to improve the education and development of all students. Advocate for equitable, student-centered legislation, policy, and procedures. 6

10 d. School counselors demonstrate high ethical standards. School counselors demonstrate ethical behaviors. School counselors uphold the American School Counselor Association s Ethical Standards for School Counselors, revised June 26, 2004 ( the Code of Ethics for North Carolina Educators (effective June 1, 1997), and the Standards for Professional Conduct adopted April 1, (Please see Appendix B.) Demonstrate ethical behaviors. Uphold the American School Counselor Association s Ethical Standards for School Counselors. Uphold the Code of Ethics and Standards for North Carolina Educators and Standards for Professional Conduct. Standard 2: School counselors promote a respectful environment for diverse population of students. Professional school counselors establish a respectful school environment to ensure that each student is supported by caring staff. School counselors recognize diversity and treat students as individuals, holding high expectations for every student. Knowing that students have many different needs, school counselors work to identify those needs and adapt their services to meet them. School counselors recognize the fact that many adults share responsibility for educating students and collaborate with them to facilitate student academic success. a. School counselors foster a school environment in which each student has a positive, nurturing relationship with caring adults. School counselors create an environment that is inviting, respectful, supportive, inclusive, and flexible. School counselors model and teach behaviors that lead to positive and nurturing relationships through developmentally appropriate and prevention-oriented activities. Create an environment that is inviting, respectful, supportive, inclusive, and flexible. Model and teach positive behaviors that lead to positive and nurturing relationships through developmentally appropriate and prevention-oriented activity. b. School counselors embrace diversity in the school community and in the world. School counselors demonstrate knowledge of the history of diverse cultures and their role in shaping global issues. School counselors collaborate with teachers to ensure that the presentation of the North Carolina Standard Course of Study is relevant to a diverse student population. School counselors actively select materials and develop activities that counteract stereotypes and incorporate histories and contributions of diverse cultures. School counselors recognize the influence of culture on a child s development and personality. School counselors help other understand how a student s culture, language, and background may influence school performance and consider these influences in the programs and services they provide. Demonstrate knowledge of the history of diverse cultures and their role in shaping global issues. Collaborate with teachers to ensure that the presentation of the Standard Course of Study is relevant to a diverse student population. Select materials and develop activities that counteract stereotypes and incorporate histories and contributions. 7

11 Understand how a students culture, language, and background may influence school performance and consider these influences in the programs and services they provide. c. School counselors treat students as individuals. School counselors maintain high expectations, including graduation from high school, for students of all backgrounds. School counselors appreciate differences and value the contributions of each student in the learning environment. Maintain high expectations for all students. Appreciate differences and value the contributions of each student in the learning environment. d. School counselors recognize students are diverse and adapt their services accordingly. School counselors recognize that all students have different needs and collaborate with school and community personnel to help meet their needs. School counselors identify these needs using data, referrals, observation, and other sources for information. School counselors collaborate with others to create a customized plan of action that provides follow-up services to meet students varied needs. Collaborate with school and community personnel to help meet student needs. Identify special needs using data, referrals, observations, and other sources of information. Collaborate with others to create a customized plan of action that provides follow-up services to meets students varied needs. e. School counselors work collaboratively with families and significant adults in the lives of students. School counselors recognize that educating students is a shared responsibility involving the school, parents/guardians, and the community. School counselors improve communication and collaboration among the school, home, and community in order to promote and build trust, understanding, and partnerships with all segments of the school community. School counselors seek solutions to overcome barriers that may stand in the way of effective family and community involvement in the education of students. Improve communication and collaboration among the school, home, and community. Promote and build trust, understanding, and partnerships with all segments of the school community. Seek solutions to overcome barriers that may stand in the way of effective family and community involvement. Standard 3: School counselors understand and facilitate the implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program. Professional school counselors align their programs with state and national best practices to ensure that their role fits in the school program. A comprehensive school counseling program meets the academic, career, and social/emotional development needs of students through the implementation of programming including individual counseling, classroom presentation, academic advising, career development services, consultation, parent education and other responsive services. School counselors deliver a comprehensive school counseling program for all students and provide developmentally appropriate services and activities based on student needs. A school counselor must engage in leadership, advocacy, and collaboration with all school personnel for 8

12 the successful implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program. School counselors understand how students learn and help all students develop in the areas of academic, career and personal social success. School counselors align with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study to meet the needs of students. a. School counselors align their programs to support student success in the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. In order to support the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, school counselors align content standards and implement program models developed by professional organizations in school counseling. School counselors support equity and access to rigorous and relevant curricular for all students. School counselors develop and apply strategies to enhance student success. Align content standards and implement program models develops by professional organizations in school counseling. Support equity and access to rigorous and relevant curricula. Develop and apply strategies to enhance student success. b. School counselors understand how their professional knowledge and skills support and enhance student success. School counselors bring richness and depth of understanding to their school through their knowledge of theories and research about human development, student learning, and academic success. School counselors apply this knowledge as they address the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. Know theory and research about human development, student learning, and academic success. Address the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. c. School counselors recognize the interconnectedness of the comprehensive school counseling program with academic content areas/disciplines. School counselors understand how the comprehensive school counseling program relates to other disciplines. School counselors support the mission and goals of the school and district by providing technical assistance to all curricula areas as they align components of the North Carolina Standard Course of Study to their content areas/disciplines. School counselors support teachers and other specialists use of the North Carolina State Standards to develop and enhance students 21st Century skills and global awareness. Support the mission and goals of the school and district by providing technical assistance to all curricula areas as the align components of the North Carolina Standard Course of Study Guidance Curriculum to their content areas/disciplines. Support teachers and other specialists use of the North Carolina Guidance Curriculum to develop and enhance students 21 st Century skills and promote global awareness. d. School counselors develop comprehensive school counseling programs that are relevant to students. School counselors use data to develop comprehensive programs that meet student needs. School counselors deliberately, strategically, and broadly incorporate into their programs the life skills that students need to be successful in the 21st Century. These skills span the academic, personal/social, and career domains and include leadership, ethics, accountability, adaptability, personal productivity, personal responsibility, people skills, self-direction, and social responsibility. 9

13 Use data to develop comprehensive programs that meet student needs. Incorporate into their programs the life skills that students need to be successful in the 21 st Century. Standard 4: School counselors promote learning for all students. Professional school counselors are knowledgeable of the ways learning takes place and understands the significance of academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. School counselors work to eliminate barriers that students may experience. School counselors use data to plan programs that help students develop their academic and career- related skills as well as their abilities to relate cooperatively and effectively with other people. School counselors use a variety of methods to implement programs that will help raise achievement and close gaps. School counselor help students think through their problems and fine solutions. School counselors listen and communicate well, and they model those behaviors for others around them. a. School counselors know how students learn. School counselors understand the teaching and learning process. School counselors know the influences that affect individual student learning, such as human development, culture, and language proficiency. School counselors are aware of barriers that impact student learning and assist in overcoming them. School counselors provide resources to staff to enhance student strengths and address student weaknesses. Know the influences that affect individual student learning, such as human development, culture, and language proficiency. Assist in overcoming those barriers that impact student learning. Provide resources to staff to enhance student strengths and address student weaknesses. b. School counselors plan their programs for the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. School counselors use academic, behavior, and attendance data to plan appropriate programs for students. School counselors discuss the comprehensive school counseling program with school administrators and communicate the goals of the program to stakeholders. School counselors consult and collaborate with colleagues, parent/guardians, and other stakeholders to ensure that students needs are addressed. School counselors make their programs responsive to cultural diversity and student needs. Use academic, behavior and attendance data to plan appropriate programs. Discuss the comprehensive school counseling program with school administrators and communicate the goals of the program to stakeholders. Consult and collaborate with colleagues, parents/guardians, and other stakeholders. Make their programs responsive to cultural diversity and student needs. c. School counselors use a variety of delivery methods. School counselors utilize the Guidance Curriculum, Individual Student Planning, and Preventive and Responsive Services in meeting the needs of students as they strive to raise achievement and close gaps. School counselors spend the majority of their time in these direct services, allocating time based on the developmental needs of their students. School counselors are responsive to individual student needs and differences in learning styles and culture in the programs and activities they provide. School counselors employ technology as appropriate to enhance delivery of their programs. 10

14 Utilize the Guidance Curriculum, Individual Student Planning, and Preventive and Responsive Services in meeting the needs of students as they strive to raise achievement and close gaps. Allocate time based on the developmental needs of their students. Respond to individual student needs and differences in learning styles and culture in the programs and activities they provide. Employ technology as appropriate to enhance delivery of their programs. d. School counselors help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. School counselors assist all students with developing academic, career, and personal/social skills. School counselors help students utilize sound reasoning, understand connections, and make complex choices. School counselors help students learn problem-solving techniques that incorporate critical thinking skills such as identifying problems, recognizing options, weighing evidence, and evaluating consequences. School counselors encourage students to use these skills to make healthy and responsible choices in their everyday lives. Assist all students with developing academic, career, and personal/social skills. Help students utilize sound reasoning, understand connections, and make complex choices. Help students learn problem-solving techniques that incorporate critical thinking skills such as identifying problems, recognizing options, weighing evidence, and evaluating consequences. Encourage students to use these skills to make healthy and responsible choices in their everyday lives. e. School counselors use and promote effective listening and communication skills. School counselors listen responsively to students, colleagues, parents/guardians, and other stakeholders in order to identify issues and barriers that impede student success. School counselors use a variety of methods to communicate effectively in support of the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. School counselors assist students in developing effective listening and communication skills in order to enhance academic success, build positive relationships, resolve conflicts, advocate for themselves, and become responsible 21st Century citizens. Listen responsively to students, colleagues, parents/guardians, and other stakeholders in order to identify issues and barriers that impede student success. Use a variety of methods to communicate effectively in support of the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. Assist students in developing effective listening and communication skills in order to enhance academic success, build positive relationships, resolve conflicts, advocate for themselves, and become responsible 21 st Century citizens. Standard 5: School counselors actively reflect on their practice. Professional school counselors demonstrate accountability for managing and delivering a comprehensive school counseling program. School counselors analyze formal and informal data to evaluate their programs in a deliberate on-going manner. School counselors participate in professional development opportunities that support the school and district s mission as well as the comprehensive counseling program. School counselors recognize that change is constant and use best practices to continually improve their programs. 11

15 a. School counselors analyze the impact of the school counseling program. School counselors think systematically and critically about the impact of the comprehensive school counseling program on student academic, career, and personal/social development. School counselors analyze student achievement, behavior, and school climate data, as well as feedback from students, parents, and other stakeholders to continually develop their program. School counselors evaluate the effectiveness of their program based on these data. Think systematically and critically about the impact of the comprehensive school counseling program on student academic, career, and personal/ social development. Analyze student achievement, behavior, and school climate data, as well as feedback from students, parents, and other stakeholders to continually develop their program. Evaluate the effectiveness of their program. b. School counselors link professional growth to the needs of their school and their program goals. School counselors participate in continued, high quality professional development that reflects a global view of educational practices; includes 21st Century skills and knowledge; aligns with the State Board of Education priorities; and meets the needs of students and their own professional growth. Participate in continued, high quality professional development. c. School counselors function effectively in a complex dynamic environment. Understanding that change is constant, school counselors actively investigate and consider new ideas that improve student academic, career, and personal/social development as well as the school counseling profession. School counselors collaborate with students, staff, parents, and other stakeholders to implement these ideas. Actively investigate and consider new ideas that improve student academic, career, and personal/social development as well as the school counseling profession. Collaborate with students, staff, parents, and other stakeholder to implement these ideas. 12

16 Framework for 21 st Century Learning The Partnership for 21 st Century Skills has developed a vision for 21 st Century student success in the new global economy. Figure st Century Student Outcomes and Support Systems The elements described in this section as 21 st Century student outcomes (represented by the rainbow in Figure 1) are the skills, knowledge, and expertise students should master to succeed in work and life in the 21 st Century. Core Subjects and 21 st Century Themes Mastery of core subjects and 21 st Century themes is essential for students in the 21 st Century. Core subjects include English, reading in or language arts, world languages, arts, mathematics, economics, science, geography, history, government, and civics. We believe school must move beyond a focus on basic competency in core subjects promoting understanding of academic content at much higher levels by weaving 21 st Century interdisciplinary themes into core subjects: Global Awareness Financial, Economic, Business, and Entrepreneurial Literacy Civic Literacy Health Literacy 13

17 Learning and Innovation Skills Learning and innovation skills are what separate students who are prepared for increasingly complex life and work environments in 21 st Century and those who are not. They include: Creativity and Innovation Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Communication and Collaboration Information, Media, and Technology Skills People in the 21 st Century live in a technology and media-driven environment, marked by access to an abundance of information, rapid change in technology tools, and the ability to collaborate and make individual contributions on an unprecedented scale. To be effective in the 21 st Century, citizens and works must be able to exhibit a range of functional and critical thinking skills, such as: Information Literacy Media Literacy ICT (Information, Communications, and Technology) Literacy Life and Career Skills Today s life and work environments require far more than thinking skills and content knowledge. The ability to navigate the complex life and work environments in the globally competitive information age requires students to pay rigorous attention to developing adequate life and career skills, such as: Flexibility and Adaptability Initiative and Self-Direction Social and Cross-Cultural Skills Productivity and Accountability Leadership and Responsibility 21 st Century Support Systems Developing a comprehensive framework for 21 st Century learning requires more than identifying specific skills, content knowledge, expertise, and literacies. An innovative support system must be created to help students master the multidimensional abilities required of them in the 21 st Century. The Partnership has identified five critical support systems that ensure student mastery of 21 st Century skills: 21 st Century Standards Assessment of 21 st Century Skills 21 st Century Curriculum and Instruction 21 st Century Professional Development 21 st Century Learning Environments For more information, visit the Partnership s website at Used with permission. 14

18 Milestones for Improving Learning and Education The Partnership for 21 st Century Skills developed the Milestones for Improving Learning and Education (MILE) Guide for 21 st Century Skills to assist educators and administrators in measuring the progress of their schools in defining, teaching, and assessing 21 st Century skills. The following describes the skills and knowledge required of students in the 21 st Century. This list was adapted from the 21 st Century Partnership s MILE Guide and served as a foundation for the North Carolina Professional School Social Work standards. Global Awareness Using 21 st Century skills to understand and address global issues. Learning from and working collaboratively with individuals representing diverse cultures, religions and lifestyles in a spirit of mutual respect and open dialogue in personal, work, and community contexts. Having the ability to utilize non-english languages as a tool for understanding other nations and cultures. Financial, Economic, Business, and Entrepreneurial Literacy Knowing how to make appropriate personal economic choices. Understanding the role of the economy and the role of business in the economy. Using entrepreneurial skills to enhance workplace productivity and career options. Civic Literacy Being an informed citizen to participate effectively in government. Exercising the rights and obligations of citizenship at local, state, national, and global levels. Understanding the local and global implications of civic decisions. Health Literacy Having the ability to access health information and services, navigate health institutions, and act as an effective advocate to improve health for self, family and/or community. Understanding preventive physical and mental health measures, including proper diet, nutrition, exercise, risk avoidance, and stress reduction. Demonstrating understanding of national and international health. Thinking and Learning Skills Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills Exercising sound reasoning and understanding. Making complex choices. Understanding the interconnections among systems. Framing, analyzing, and solving problems. Communication Articulating thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively. Information and Media Literacy Skills Understanding, managing and creating effective oral, written and/or multimedia communication in a variety of forms and contexts. 15

19 Analyzing, accessing, managing, integrating, evaluating, and creating information in a variety of forms and media. Creativity and Innovation Skills Demonstrating originality and inventiveness in work. Developing, implementing, and communicating new ideas to others. Being open and responsive to new and diverse perspectives. Collaboration Skills Demonstrating ability to work effectively with diverse teams. Being willing to be helpful and make necessary compromises to accomplish a common goal. Contextual Learning Skills Having the ability to take advantage of education in a variety of contexts, both inside and outside the classroom; understanding that knowledge is acquired within a context. ICT Literacy Using technology in the course of attaining and utilizing 21 st Century skills. Life Skills Leadership Using interpersonal and problem-solving skills to influence more than one person toward a goal. Having the ability to leverage strengths of others to accomplish a common goal. Ethics Demonstrating integrity and ethical behavior in personal, workplace, and community contexts. Accountability Setting and meeting high standards and goals for oneself and others. Adaptability Adapting to varied roles and responsibilities. Tolerating ambiguity and changing priorities. Personal Productivity Utilizing time efficiently and manage workload. Being punctual and reliable. Personal Responsibility Exercising personal responsibility and flexibility in personal, workplace and community contexts. People Skills Working appropriately and productively with others. Self Direction Monitoring one s own understanding and learning needs. 16

20 Demonstrating initiative to advance professional skill levels. Having the ability to define, prioritize, and complete tasks without direct oversight. Demonstrating commitment to learning as a lifelong process. Social Responsibility Acting responsibly with the interests of the larger community in mind. North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process The rubric used for evaluating school counselors is based on the Framework for 21 st Century Learning and the North Carolina Professional School Counseling Standards. It is designed to promote effective leadership, quality teaching, and student learning while enhancing professional practice and leading to improved instruction. This evaluation instrument and its accompanying processes and materials are designed to encourage professional growth, to be flexible and fair to the persons being evaluated, and to serve as the foundation for the establishment of professional goals and identification of professional development needs. The intended purpose of the North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process is to assess the school counselor s performance in relation to the North Carolina Professional School Counselor Standards and to design a plan for professional growth. The principal or a designee (hereinafter principal ) will conduct the evaluation process in which the school counselor will actively participate through the use of self-assessment, reflection, presentation of artifacts, and classroom demonstration(s). A local board shall use the North Carolina Professional School Counselor Standards and North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process unless it develops an alternative evaluation that is properly validated and that includes standards and criteria similar to those in the North Carolina Professional School Counselor Standards and North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process. The North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process shall include the following components: Component 1: Training Before participating in the evaluation process, all school counselors, principals and peer evaluators must complete training on the evaluation process. Component 2: Orientation Within two weeks of a school counselor s first day of work in any school year, the principal will provide the school counselor with a copy of or directions for obtaining access to a copy of: A. The Rubric for Evaluating North Carolina School Counselors; B. This policy; and C. A schedule for completing all the components of the evaluation process. Component 3: Self-Assessment Using the Rubric for Evaluating North Carolina School Counselors, the school counselor shall rate his or her own performance at the beginning of the year and reflect on his or her performance throughout the year. 17

21 Component 4: Pre-Observation Conference Before the first formal observation, the principal shall meet with the school counselor to discuss the school counselor s self- assessment based on the Rubric for Evaluating North Carolina School Counselors, the school counselor s most recent professional growth plan, and the lesson(s) to be observed. The school counselor will provide the principal with a written description of the lesson(s). The goal of this conference is to prepare the principal for the observation. Pre-Observation conferences are not required for subsequent observations. Component 5: Observations All school support staff members who are licensed by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction are required to adhere to the annual evaluation requirements outlined in GS 115c-333.1(a). The minimum requirements for observations of probationary staff members whose contracts are renewed annually and career staff members who have reached career status are: Probationary One (1) pre-observation conference conducted prior to the first formal observation. Three (3) formal observations which may be conducted by different administrators if the support staff member works in more than one school. Different administrators in the same school may also conduct observations. Administrators may choose to conduct more than the required three (3) formal observations during the school year. Three (3) formal post-observation conferences. One (1) final/summative evaluation conducted near the end of the year. All administrators who observed the support staff member during the year should confer about the final evaluation ratings prior to the final/summative evaluation conference to ensure that all aspects of the support staff member s performance are considered. Total: Three (3) Formal Observations (Minimum requirement as administrators reserve the right to determine number of observations. Likewise, the employee may request additional Formal Observations.) Career One (1) pre-observation conference conducted prior to the first formal observation. One (1) formal observation. One (1) formal post-observation conference. Two (2) informal observations which may be conducted by more than one (1) administrator. One (1) final/summative evaluation conducted near the end of the year. All administrators who observed the support staff member during the year should confer about final evaluation ratings prior to the final/summative evaluation conference to ensure that all aspects of the support staff member s performance are considered. Total: Three (3) Observations (1 Formal, 2 Informal) (Multiple administrators confer regarding observations and Summative Evaluation as determined by LEA) Any administrator responsible for evaluating probationary or career status school support staff members may choose to conduct additional formal observations during the school year. Observation requirements are summarized in the following table. Likewise, the employee may request additional Formal Observations. 18

22 Comparison of Probationary and Career Support Staff Member Evaluation Requirements Probationary Career Pre-Observation Conference One (1) conducted prior to first formal observation Formal Observation(s) 3 1 Formal Post-Observation 3 1 Conference Informal Observations 2 Summative Evaluation 1 1 Other Requirements Multiple administrators confer regarding observation results and representation on the final/summative evaluation. Options Administrators may choose to conduct additional observations. Likewise, the employee may request additional observations. During observations, the evaluator shall note the school counselor s performance in relationship to applicable standards on the appropriate rubric for evaluating the school support staff member. Each formal observation should last at least forty-five minutes or an entire session or activity. Component 6: Post-Observation Conference The principal shall conduct a post-observation conference no later than ten school days after each formal observation. During the post-observation conference, the principal and school counselor shall discuss and document on the rubric the strengths and weaknesses of the school counselor s performance during the observed lesson. Component 7: Summary Evaluation Conference and Scoring the Summary Rating Form Prior to the end of the school year and in accordance with LEA timelines, the principal shall conduct a summary evaluation conference with the school counselor. During the summary evaluation conference, the principal and school counselor shall discuss the school counselor s self-assessment, the most recent Professional Growth Plan, the components of the North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process completed during the year, classroom observations, artifacts submitted or collected during the evaluation process and other evidence of performance on the rubric. At the conclusion of the North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process, the principal shall: A. Give a rating for each element in the rubric; B. Make a written comment on any element marked Not Demonstrated ; C. Give an overall rating of each standard in the rubric; D. Provide the school counselor with the opportunity to add comments to the School Counselor Summary Rating Form; E. Review the completed School Counselor Summary Rating Form with the school counselor; and F. Secure the school counselor s signature on the Record of School Counselor Evaluation Activities and School Counselor Summary Rating Form. Component 8: Professional Development Plans School counselors shall develop a Professional Growth Plan designed to serve as a guide for improving their performance during the subsequent school year. At a minimum, such a plan shall outline the standards and elements on which improvement is needed, goals to be accomplished, activities to be completed, and a timeline for completing all activities and/or achieving goals. The Professional Growth Plan should be discussed with and approved by the evaluator as the final step in the evaluation process. 19

23 Individual Growth Plans School counselors who are rated at least Proficient on all standards on the School Counselor Summary Rating Form shall develop an Individual Growth Plan designed to improve performance on specifically identified standards and elements. Monitored Growth Plans A school counselor shall be placed on a Monitored Growth Plan whenever he or she: A. Is rated Developing on one or more standard(s) on the School Counselor Summary Rating Form; and B. Is not recommended for dismissal, demotion or nonrenewal. A Monitored Growth Plan shall, at a minimum, identify the standards and elements to be improved, the goals to be accomplished and the activities the school counselor should undertake to achieve proficiency, and a timeline which allows the school counselor one school year to achieve Proficiency. A Monitored Growth Plan that meets those criteria shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements of N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C- 333(b). Directed Growth Plans A school counselor shall be placed on a Directed Growth Plan whenever he or she: A. Is rated 1. Not Demonstrated on any standard on the School Counselor Summary Rating Form; or 2. Developing on one or more standards on the School Counselor Summary Rating Form for two sequential years: and B. Is not recommended for dismissal, demotion or nonrenewal. The Directed Growth Plan shall, at a minimum, identify the standards and elements to be improved, the goals to be accomplished, the activities to be completed to achieve Proficiency, a timeline for achieving Proficiency within one school year or such shorter time as determined by the LEA. A Directed Growth Plan that meets those criteria shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements of N.C. Gen. Stat. 115C-333(b). North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process Effective Dates and Effect on Licensing and Career Status Effective with the school year, LEAs may evaluate school counselors using this policy. Effective with the school year, all school counselors in North Carolina will be evaluated using this policy unless a local board develops an alternative evaluation that is properly validated and that includes standards and criteria similar to those in the North Carolina Professional School Counselor Standards and North Carolina School Counselor Evaluation Process in which case the local board shall use that instrument. Beginning School Counselors Effective , beginning school counselors must be rated Proficient on all five North Carolina Professional School Counselor Standards on the most recent School Counselor Summary Rating Form in order to be eligible for the Standard Professional 2 License. Probationary School Counselors Effective , a principal must rate a probationary school counselor as Proficient on all five North Carolina Professional School Counselor Standards on the most recent School Counselor Summary Rating Form before recommending that school counselor for career status. 20